Blake Lively: I feel brave

The actress shot to fame playing Serena van der Woodsen in American television series Gossip Girl. And she is now a well-liked star who regularly receives praise for her fashion sense.

However, Blake admits she has not always been comfortable having the limelight thrust upon her. The blonde cites her height - she is 5ft. 10ins. - for her initial timidity.

“It’s taken me time to learn to be bolder and braver. I think my shyness comes from feeling awkward for being tall,” the 23-year-old told more! magazine.

Blake, who recently starred in Ben Affleck’s critically acclaimed drama The Town, is continuing to take a lot on board. While the star says she has matured in general, she maintains the popular US series on which she made her name was a confidence-booster.

“I’m still learning so much. I’ve grown up a lot over the past few years and Gossip Girl has made me much more secure,” Blake explained.